Honor the Veteran in Your Life

Here is the story of one World War II vet who lived through Pearl Harbor nearly 70 years ago. Use comment box below to write about your own military experience, recent or long past, or to honor a veteran – grandfather, father, relative – whether living or deceased.

Tom Mahoney, in cap, sitting second from left, was honored by Knights of Columbus Council 4504 in Union, New Jersey. Mahoney survived the attack on Pearl Harbor and recently joined the fraternal order, at age 89.

With the 70th anniversary coming this December 7th of the attack on Pearl Harbor, survivors of that “day of infamy” are becoming fewer and fewer. Tom Mahoney lived through that attack and he continues to inspire others with his story.

A World War II veteran, Mahoney, 89, was in Hawaii 70 years ago when the Japanese launched a surprise attack on the United States. This past January, Mahoney joined the Knights of Columbus during a special First Degree ceremony organized by Union (New Jersey) Council 4504.

Mahoney decided to join the Knights after he was involved in a council-sponsored program in 2010 to honor World War II veterans. As part of the program, Mahoney loaned his Pearl Harbor Survivors Association flag to Council 4504 for display in front of the council hall.

At the degree ceremony, Mahoney was feted by more than 60 council members who attended the event, including 10 members who are fellow veterans of World War II. Also present were State Deputy Herbert C. Meyer and Immediate Past State Deputy Thomas P. Ciborski.

(To learn the many services that the Knights of Columbus perform for military personnel, visit the K of C’s military council website.)